Preventing illnesses – back to school advice for families
Children are now back in the classroom after the festive break and, unfortunately, this time of the year sees viruses and infections on the rise. To help, we’ve put together some tips and simple steps families can take to keep children safe and healthy this winter.
Common viruses, such as flu and cold, norovirus, and chickenpox are more prevalent at this time of year. We’ve also seen an increase in measles cases across the Birmingham and Solihull area.
There are six simple steps that you can take to help keep you and your child safe and help stop and minimise the spread of viruses and illnesses.
1. Ensure you follow good hygiene habits, such as regular and thorough hand-washing
Washing your hands regularly is one of the more effective ways to stop the spread of viruses. Make sure you use soap and warm water and wash your hands for 20 seconds.
To help stop infections from spreading, use tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, bin them and then wash your hands.
2. Stop the spread of stomach bugs
Sickness bugs, such as norovirus and E. coli are rising, which leads to diarrhoea and vomiting in children.
If needed, using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will help prevent bugs from spreading (along with washing hands with soap).
If you have any symptoms, you’re also advised not to visit vulnerable relatives and not to return to work or school until two days after symptoms have ended to stop the spread.
3. Knowing when to keep your child at home
If your child has a high temperature (fever)and is unwell, you’re advised to keep them at home until the fever has passed.
If they have diarrhoea and/or vomiting, you should wait 48 hours before going back to school to help stop the spread.
If your child has a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough with no high temperature, they are encouraged to continue going to school.
4. Get vaccinated
Make sure you and your child have up-to-date vaccinations, which can protect you and your child against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria and polio.
With measles cases on the rise within Birmingham and Solihull, it’s important to ensure your child has had the right measles vaccinations.
How do I check my child’s vaccination status video
5. Be aware of the symptoms of Measles
We are seeing an increase in cases of measles across our communities.
If you are concerned your child may have measles please do not come to the Emergency Department unless directed to. Please get in touch with your GP (contact your GP practice but do not visit unless instructed) or ring 111 first.
Visit our website for guidance and how to check your child’s vaccination status.
6. Take online advice from NHS resources
If in doubt, there are plenty of online resources to help you if your child is ill and you are unsure of what to do, such as: